If you are wondering how to start as a freelance writer, the first thing you need to do is to find a real freelance writer and pick their brain. "A real freelance writer" means someone who actually makes a living writing; not a self-styled blogger, a college student racking up pennies on a revenue share site, or someone who decided to write articles on a freelance writing site for $1 each.
Three tips on making your start as a freelancer
First, understand that freelance writing is work. If you don't have the motivation to be your own boss, you won't succeed. You aren't going to have a time clock to punch to ensure you get started on time, or an employer pushing you to finish on time.
Second, you have to be proactive. Assignments won't just fall into your lap; you have to be able to go looking for them and convince potential clients that you are the right person for the job. Initially, plan on spending at least one-third of your time marketing yourself and looking for work.
Third, don't be tempted to work for nothing or almost nothing just to land a job. Taking on a project for one-tenth of what it is worth and then running yourself into the ground just sets you up for burnout. Redouble your efforts to find a project that pays a decent rate -- it will pay off!
Freelance writing advice
Create a portfolio with samples of your work in the areas in which you can produce the best results. Host them on the web, if possible, so you can link a prospective client right to your work (posting them to a personal website or blog is a great idea); or create a nice PDF file that you can send them via email.
Getting a start as a freelance writer may not be easy, but the benefits of being your own boss and making a living doing something you love are definitely worth it.
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